Request for Proposals for a Heat Pipe Solutions Widefield Context Camera—Thermal Management System

The University of Arizona seeks a qualified vendor to design, fabricate, test, and deliver a passive thermal‑management system (heat‑pipe based) for the Widefield Context Camera (WCC) used by its Steward Observatory. The scope includes providing heat‑spread‑er plates, three heat pipes, a thermal interface plate, full engineering documentation (CAD models, analysis, test reports, QA records), and supporting technical services such as design assistance and project management. Proposals must be submitted electronically by the revised deadline of August 7 2026, with a mandatory question‑submission cut‑off on July 29 2026. Evaluation will consider experience, technical approach, price, and account management. • Deliverables: analysis validation, qualification test plans & results, CAD models, three flight‑grade heat‑pipe units (plus spares) and two test units, full QA documentation. • Technical requirements: Al6061‑T6 construction, ammonia working fluid, 0‑g and 1‑g performance, 200 W total thermal load, ≥5‑year lifetime, strict temperature uniformity and stability. • Vendor responsibilities: design confirmation, qualification testing, shipping risk, and provision of all required documentation per University standards.